The Bizarre Language Rule In Australia That Could Leave You With A Big Fine

Language usually isn't a concern for American visitors to Australia. Most Australians speak English, and the few differences between Aussie and American English are charming. After a couple of days Down Under, you'll be greeting Aussies with an easy "G'day" and heading to the beach for a "barbie" (barbecue). But there is one language rule you'll need to learn before visiting Australia, and it involves swearing. You might be surprised to learn that it's an offense to use profane language in public in all areas of Australia. This is one of many laws in other countries that also apply to tourists.

A quick heads up before you read any further: You may want to shield young or sensitive eyes and ears from here on in. Now, if you know anything about Australia, you might be thinking, "Isn't swearing basically an Australian pastime?" While that stereotype is a bit overblown, many Aussies are more comfortable dropping the F-bomb than those in other nations. 

In fact, if colorful language shocks you, think about planning a trip to Tasmania. The capital, Hobart, contains Australia's least potty-mouthed residents, according to a survey by Preply. (Ironically, Tasmania is curse-loving chef Gordan Ramsey's most memorable destination). So, using offensive language in a public place is criminalized all over Australia. It can get you a hefty fine or even land you in jail in certain states and territories. What the ... heck is going on?

Australian states and territories all have their own takes on the swearing laws, but the general sentiment is the same. A person using obscene language in a public place can be charged. Public places — anywhere open to the general population, regardless of whether you need to pay to enter — are all fair game. If you're thinking that Australia's laws seem unnecessarily harsh, spare a thought for Maryland, where a bizarre law prohibits cursing while driving.

But is the law enforced in Australia? That often depends on the intent behind your speech as you let rip. If you're venting frustration or expressing surprise, you're unlikely to be punished. Many swear words have lost much of their punch, so throwing around profanities in a bar is unlikely to get you fined. The exception might be if you swear around children and someone complains.

However, if you intentionally use offensive language to threaten or intimidate someone, you're far more likely to run into trouble with the police. The amount you can be fined varies, from AUD 110 ($70) in Queensland if you avoid going to court to AUD 6,000 ($3,860) in Western Australia if you end up in front of a judge. That's enough to make anyone say "f ... iddlesticks."